Tybee Island Travel Guide

Tybee Island is a beautiful coastal destination in Georgia that boasts natural beauty, outdoor adventures, rich history, local culture, and more. Read on to learn all about this stunning island and plan your dream trip.


Introduction to Tybee Island

Located on the coast of Georgia, Tybee Island is a beautiful barrier island that boasts stunning natural beauty, outdoor adventures, rich history, local culture, and more. Known for its miles of picturesque beaches and quaint small-town charm, it’s no wonder that Tybee Island is a popular destination for visitors looking to relax, unwind, and explore. Whether you’re interested in historical sites, outdoor activities, or simply lounging on the beach with a good book, Tybee Island has something for everyone. In this guide, we’ll take a closer look at some of the best things to see and do during your visit to Tybee Island.

List of Places to Visit in Tybee Island

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Tybee Island Light Station and Museum: The Tybee Island Light Station is a prominent feature of the island’s skyline and has been guiding mariners safely into the Savannah River for more than 270 years. The museum offers visitors a chance to explore the history and culture of the island, and the surrounding area.
  • Fort Pulaski National Monument: This historic fort was used in both the War of 1812 and the American Civil War. Visitors can step back in time and explore the fort’s tunnels, casements, and gun rooms, and learn about the history of the island and its role in these two pivotal conflicts.

Natural Attractions of Tybee Island: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Tybee Island Beach: One of the main attractions of Tybee Island is its beautiful beaches. The island has a number of beaches to choose from, each offering its own unique features and atmosphere. Popular options include North Beach, Mid Beach, and South Beach.
  • Tybee Island Marine Center: This center is dedicated to providing education on the Coastal Georgia marine environment. Visitors have the opportunity to take guided beach walks to view the various species that inhabit the island, and there are interactive exhibits that allow for hands-on learning.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Tybee Island

  • McQueen’s Island Trail: This 6-mile trail is perfect for hiking, biking, or nature walks. The trail runs along the old Savannah and Tybee Railroad bed and offers stunning views of the marshes and wildlife that inhabit the area.

Best Things to Do in Tybee Island: Activities and Tours

  • Dolphin and Eco Tours: Take a boat tour to spot local bottlenose dolphins and learn about the native wildlife and ecosystems of Tybee Island.
  • Stand-Up Paddleboarding: Try out paddleboarding on the calm waters of the Back River.
  • Sunset Cruise: Watch the sun set over the ocean with a relaxing evening cruise.

Week-Long Itinerary for Tybee Island

Day 1: Arrive and settle into accommodation Day 2: Visit Fort Pulaski National Monument Day 3: Spend the day at Tybee Island Beach Day 4: Explore the Tybee Island Light Station and Museum Day 5: Take a dolphin tour or try stand-up paddleboarding Day 6: Go hiking or biking on McQueen’s Island Trail Day 7: Enjoy a sunset cruise

Food and Drink Scene of Tybee Island

Must-Try Dishes

  • Seafood: Tybee Island is known for its fresh seafood dishes, such as crab cakes, shrimp, and fish tacos.
  • Lowcountry cuisine: Try a traditional dish like shrimp and grits or fried chicken with collard greens and black-eyed peas.

Local Beverages

  • Sweet Tea: Sweet tea is a Southern staple, and Tybee Island is no exception.
  • Local craft beer: Enjoy a cold brew from one of the many local breweries, such as Coastal Empire Beer Co. or Service Brewing Co.

Where to Stay in Tybee Island: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  • Mermaid Cottages: These cozy cottages are perfect for a home away from home experience on Tybee Island.
  • Desoto Beach Hotel: Located just steps from the beach, this hotel offers oceanfront accommodations and a variety of amenities.

What to Buy in Tybee Island: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Sea Salt: Purchase a jar of locally harvested sea salt to bring a taste of Tybee Island home with you.
  • Handmade Quilts: Indulge in some traditional Southern craftsmanship and bring back a hand-stitched quilt as a memento of your trip.

Local Culture and Customs of Tybee Island

  • Island Time: Life in Tybee Island moves at a slower pace than in the city, so embrace the laidback lifestyle.
  • Southern Hospitality: The people of Tybee Island are known for their warm and welcoming nature, so don’t be surprised if strangers strike up a conversation with you.

Best Time to Visit Tybee Island

The best time to visit Tybee Island is during the spring or fall, when the weather is mild and the crowds are smaller. July and August are typically the busiest months, with higher temperatures and large crowds to contend with.

Do’s and Don’ts of Tybee Island

Do:

  • Respect the local wildlife and ecosystems. Avoid littering and don’t approach animals.
  • Wear sunscreen and stay hydrated, especially on hot summer days.

Don’t:

  • Swim alone or venture too far out into the ocean.
  • Ignore beach safety signage or swim in restricted areas.

Safety and Health

Safety in Tybee Island

  • Be aware of rip tides and strong currents when swimming in the ocean.
  • Always wear a life jacket when participating in water sports or boating.

Health in Tybee Island

  • Protect yourself from mosquito bites, especially during the warmer months.
  • Stay hydrated and wear sunscreen to avoid heat exhaustion or sunburn.

Getting to Tybee Island: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Tybee Island

The nearest airport is Savannah/Hilton Head International Airport, located about 30 minutes away from Tybee Island by car.

Bus Stations Near Tybee Island

The Greyhound Bus Station in Savannah is the nearest station, and is located about 30 minutes away from Tybee Island by car.

Other Options

Car rental is available at Savannah/Hilton Head International Airport and in Savannah, which is the most convenient way to get around Tybee Island.

How to Get Around in Tybee Island

The best way to get around Tybee Island is on foot or by bike. There are also golf carts and scooters available for rent, as well as a public trolley that runs during the summer months.

Where to Go Next from Tybee Island: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Savannah, Georgia: Just a short drive from Tybee Island, Savannah is a beautiful historic city with plenty to see and do.
  • Hilton Head Island, South Carolina: Located about an hour away by car, Hilton Head Island offers golf courses, shopping, and world-class beaches.

Conclusion

Tybee Island is a true gem of the South, offering visitors a chance to relax and recharge while exploring everything that the island has to offer. Whether you’re interested in historical sites, outdoor adventures, or simply lounging by the beach, Tybee Island has something for everyone. We hope that this guide has given you a better understanding of what to expect during your visit to Tybee Island, and that it helps you plan your perfect trip to this stunning destination.

Tybee Island Light Station Tybee Island Light Station Fort Screven's Battery Garland Fort Screven's Battery Garland Fort Pulaski Fort Pulaski